Destination Tokyo!
STAY
Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills
andaztokyo.com
Luxury meets traditional at the uber chic Andaz Tokyo hotel. I’d recommend staying AT LEAST one night here, it’s super relaxing and the breakfast spread is to die for. The hotel has a great view of the city – perfect for a drink at night, I recommend the whisky sour with yuzu.
SHOP
Cat Street Shibuya
The best place for retail therapy, from Opening Ceremony to exclusive Japanese boutiques. Be sure to stop into Ragtag for a huge selection of second-hand designer pieces.
BerBerJin Harajuku
Last year I was in this store and so was Kanye – so I mean this is clearly a must when it comes to vintage shopping in Tokyo. Go for great tee’s and sweatshirts.
Shimokitzawa Area
Plenty of vintage shops! Just make sure you are wearing comfy shoes because you could walk around for hours exploring.
EAT
Brown Rice by Neal’s Yard Remedies
A sanctuary of a café in Omotesando! The café focuses on wholefoods with a daily special – which I always go for! And also make sure to try their freshly made sparkling ginger drink.
Ginza Kagari
Yes, all the chain’s like Ichiran have amazing Ramen, but when you want something special (aka Michelin star but still with a super affordable price point of approx. $15) Ginza Kagari offers a special chicken ramen that will blow your socks off. Be prepared to queue.
Minotoya
I found this gem just around the corner from the Andaz Tokyo hotel. It’s the most divine soba noodle restaurant perfect for lunch. You place your order at the front counter, collect your tray from the tiny kitchen area and then stand around a marble plinth table consuming your soba. You’ll be sure to spot a few Salary Men at this joint.
COFFEE
Blue Bottle Coffee
Spending the day in Aoyama visiting all the designer boutiques? Why not start your day with a coffee from Blue Bottle – grab a spot on the terrace and people watch with your coffee in hand.
Coffee Supreme
Japanese minimalism mixed with cute-ness at its best! This hole in the wall coffee shop is now a must stop for me. Try their toasties!
Streamer Coffee
I stumbled across Streamer a few years ago on my first trip, I make sure I always stop by there to pick up an iced long black coffee and a matcha cookie.
DO
Ueno Park
Find the lake with the swan paddle boats! A great way to spend a sunny day.
Mori Art Museum
Head to the Mori Art Museum in Roppongi – they have ever changing exhibitions so always worth a look! Not to mention there is a great observatory with incredible views of the city.
